Therapists in San Francisco, CA

Photo of Remi Bean, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Francisco, CA
Remi Bean
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with transgender, non-binary, and queer clients who are exploring their gender and sexuality.
Do you want to be accepted just as you are rather than shamed or judged? Do you want a safe place to heal from trauma, explore your identity, or learn how to cope with stress? Therapy will give you the tools and resources to recover from trauma, resolve conflict and build intimacy in your relationships, develop effective communication skills, and manage anxiety. A safe therapeutic relationship will help you discover and articulate your authentic self, free of shame and guilt. Therapy can also help you unlearn harmful relationship patterns and be more kind to yourself. You are not alone!
I specialize in working with transgender, non-binary, and queer clients who are exploring their gender and sexuality.
Do you want to be accepted just as you are rather than shamed or judged? Do you want a safe place to heal from trauma, explore your identity, or learn how to cope with stress? Therapy will give you the tools and resources to recover from trauma, resolve conflict and build intimacy in your relationships, develop effective communication skills, and manage anxiety. A safe therapeutic relationship will help you discover and articulate your authentic self, free of shame and guilt. Therapy can also help you unlearn harmful relationship patterns and be more kind to yourself. You are not alone!
(510) 216-1873 View (510) 216-1873
Photo of Skye Nashelsky, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Skye Nashelsky
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94110
My expertise is with LGBTQIA+, especially transgender, nonbinary, and gender diverse folks, & BIPOC communities.
You have the capacity to lead a fulfilling and meaningful life! There are multiple forms and layers of oppression that impact our daily lives and self worth. I support clients in acknowledging and addressing shame, grief, trauma, and anxiety. I specialize in issues concerning gender, sexuality, intimacy, relationships, and identity. As your therapist, I act as a support working collaboratively alongside you to identify goals, action steps and interventions tailored specifically to your individual needs and identity.
My expertise is with LGBTQIA+, especially transgender, nonbinary, and gender diverse folks, & BIPOC communities.
You have the capacity to lead a fulfilling and meaningful life! There are multiple forms and layers of oppression that impact our daily lives and self worth. I support clients in acknowledging and addressing shame, grief, trauma, and anxiety. I specialize in issues concerning gender, sexuality, intimacy, relationships, and identity. As your therapist, I act as a support working collaboratively alongside you to identify goals, action steps and interventions tailored specifically to your individual needs and identity.
(510) 395-8008 View (510) 395-8008
Photo of Kel Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Francisco, CA
Kel Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MCP, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
I am a trans woman and somatic therapist employed by Center for Mindful Psychotherapy. My clients tend to be transgender, nonbinary, and/or queer adults of all neurotypes, as well as couples of various identities and orientations. I may be a good therapist for you if you are seeking support in deepening your sense of agency, better understanding your embodied experiences, navigating life transitions, and/or recognizing and shifting behavior patterns, narratives, and impulses. I can also support you with managing anxious, dissociative, and/or depressive symptoms. I am here to support you towards living a more fulfilled life.
I am a trans woman and somatic therapist employed by Center for Mindful Psychotherapy. My clients tend to be transgender, nonbinary, and/or queer adults of all neurotypes, as well as couples of various identities and orientations. I may be a good therapist for you if you are seeking support in deepening your sense of agency, better understanding your embodied experiences, navigating life transitions, and/or recognizing and shifting behavior patterns, narratives, and impulses. I can also support you with managing anxious, dissociative, and/or depressive symptoms. I am here to support you towards living a more fulfilled life.
(415) 532-3379 View (415) 532-3379
Photo of Sam Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Sam Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94105
I am a trans Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in working with trans, queer, genderqueer, and gender-nonconforming teens and adults. I have a non-pathologizing approach and deeply value identities outside the "norm." I have fifteen years of experience as a mental health provider, including support groups with teens and adults, individual therapy, and crisis work. I am a Bay Area activist who has fought for transgender rights by organizing provider trainings and public demonstrations. I am a visual artist and storyteller who believes that underrepresented individuals expressing themselves creatively and authentically is powerful and important.
I am a trans Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in working with trans, queer, genderqueer, and gender-nonconforming teens and adults. I have a non-pathologizing approach and deeply value identities outside the "norm." I have fifteen years of experience as a mental health provider, including support groups with teens and adults, individual therapy, and crisis work. I am a Bay Area activist who has fought for transgender rights by organizing provider trainings and public demonstrations. I am a visual artist and storyteller who believes that underrepresented individuals expressing themselves creatively and authentically is powerful and important.
(781) 417-5129 View (781) 417-5129
Photo of Zaire Flowers, Pre-Licensed Professional in San Francisco, CA
Zaire Flowers
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
As a transgender, black, and openly queer therapist, I have the skills and experience to help you reach your true potential.
Are you a Black, Queer, Trans, or differently-abled person ready to live authentically with no regrets? I'll help you build the confidence and self-love that will get you there. Discover a life where self-expression thrives and empowerment reigns! I help people of all genders, sexual orientations, races, and religions overcome their internalized oppression and step into a better future. Learn how to eliminate the emotional obstacles that are blocking the path to your best life. Discover delight, balance, and confidence in your own skin. Change the way you live and experience the life that is rightfully yours!
As a transgender, black, and openly queer therapist, I have the skills and experience to help you reach your true potential.
Are you a Black, Queer, Trans, or differently-abled person ready to live authentically with no regrets? I'll help you build the confidence and self-love that will get you there. Discover a life where self-expression thrives and empowerment reigns! I help people of all genders, sexual orientations, races, and religions overcome their internalized oppression and step into a better future. Learn how to eliminate the emotional obstacles that are blocking the path to your best life. Discover delight, balance, and confidence in your own skin. Change the way you live and experience the life that is rightfully yours!
(858) 263-0674 View (858) 263-0674
Photo of Ezak Marquez, Counselor in San Francisco, CA
Ezak Marquez
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with the LGBTQ community with a focus on transgender and nonbinary folks to address a variety of issues including gender dysphoria, identity exploration, anxiety, and depression.
My name is Ezak and my pronouns are they, them, theirs. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Gender Specialist at Diaspora Therapy Group. I utilize a person-centered and strengths-based approach and I have been trained through a multicultural and trauma-informed lens. I work with adolescents and adults wanting to make a change in their life and I work collaboratively with my clients to identify their goals.
I specialize in working with the LGBTQ community with a focus on transgender and nonbinary folks to address a variety of issues including gender dysphoria, identity exploration, anxiety, and depression.
My name is Ezak and my pronouns are they, them, theirs. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Gender Specialist at Diaspora Therapy Group. I utilize a person-centered and strengths-based approach and I have been trained through a multicultural and trauma-informed lens. I work with adolescents and adults wanting to make a change in their life and I work collaboratively with my clients to identify their goals.
(619) 329-9950 View (619) 329-9950
Photo of Jordyn Olivia Serwin, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Francisco, CA
Jordyn Olivia Serwin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94134  (Online Only)
We all deserve to feel seen, included, and understood, no matter who we are. As an LGBTQ+ affirmative therapist, my aim is to help you better see yourself in all aspects of who you are, feel more included in relation to those around you, and experience a greater understanding of how you fit into a wider world. Maybe you’re exploring your non-binary gender for the first time. Maybe you’re supporting a transgender family member or partner. Maybe you’re working through relationship challenges as an LGBTQ+ person. Together, we can explore what “seen,” “included,” and “understood” mean for you and how you can achieve them.
We all deserve to feel seen, included, and understood, no matter who we are. As an LGBTQ+ affirmative therapist, my aim is to help you better see yourself in all aspects of who you are, feel more included in relation to those around you, and experience a greater understanding of how you fit into a wider world. Maybe you’re exploring your non-binary gender for the first time. Maybe you’re supporting a transgender family member or partner. Maybe you’re working through relationship challenges as an LGBTQ+ person. Together, we can explore what “seen,” “included,” and “understood” mean for you and how you can achieve them.
(747) 266-1265 View (747) 266-1265
Photo of Luanna Rodgers, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Luanna Rodgers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94122
My work with transgender individuals includes supportive psychotherapy, assessment, coming out, gender change and choices, confidence building, relationship issues, and referrals for ancillary services.
I am a caring, empathetic, and experienced therapist with more than 20 years in practice. I can assist you to find your unique life's path, overcome obstacles such as difficult emotions and past trauma, and expand your potential for happiness. I work with individuals, families, and people in many sorts of relationships, especially in the areas of anxiety and stress management, trauma and post-traumatic stress, depression, self worth and self-actualization, gender identity, sexuality and intimacy, and life transitions.
My work with transgender individuals includes supportive psychotherapy, assessment, coming out, gender change and choices, confidence building, relationship issues, and referrals for ancillary services.
I am a caring, empathetic, and experienced therapist with more than 20 years in practice. I can assist you to find your unique life's path, overcome obstacles such as difficult emotions and past trauma, and expand your potential for happiness. I work with individuals, families, and people in many sorts of relationships, especially in the areas of anxiety and stress management, trauma and post-traumatic stress, depression, self worth and self-actualization, gender identity, sexuality and intimacy, and life transitions.
(415) 697-3853 View (415) 697-3853
Photo of Jeanna Eichenbaum, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Jeanna Eichenbaum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
My speciaties include marriage and relationship work, including monogamous and polyamorous relationships, alternative sexuality concerns (kink/BDSM/vanilla), transgender and non-binary issues and transition support, LGBTQQI supportive therapy, and recovery from depression, anxiety, and trauma/PTSD related disorders.
Longing for a different outcome? Want to write a new story? You are probably hoping to find support with the process of healing something that isn't feeling right. Psychotherapy can help by offering an accepting space to look, non-judgmentally, at whatever feels stuck, painful, or unresolved. Use my support and encouragement to help you approach these challenges in new ways, and find new solutions. My goal is to provide you with acceptance and ways to access your own innate wisdom and energy. I offer individual and relationship psychotherapy. Short and long term therapy options are available, depending on your concerns and goals.
My speciaties include marriage and relationship work, including monogamous and polyamorous relationships, alternative sexuality concerns (kink/BDSM/vanilla), transgender and non-binary issues and transition support, LGBTQQI supportive therapy, and recovery from depression, anxiety, and trauma/PTSD related disorders.
Longing for a different outcome? Want to write a new story? You are probably hoping to find support with the process of healing something that isn't feeling right. Psychotherapy can help by offering an accepting space to look, non-judgmentally, at whatever feels stuck, painful, or unresolved. Use my support and encouragement to help you approach these challenges in new ways, and find new solutions. My goal is to provide you with acceptance and ways to access your own innate wisdom and energy. I offer individual and relationship psychotherapy. Short and long term therapy options are available, depending on your concerns and goals.
(415) 799-4049 View (415) 799-4049
Photo of John Hanig, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
John Hanig
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94103
I specialize in working with queer, gay, bisexual, & transgender adults & adolescents in California. I am most passionate about providing advocacy for cultural and economic diversity in our community and serving LGBTQ+ people experiencing depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Engaging in therapy is more important than ever especially in response to our current political climate and recent backlash of conservative values showing incredible disrespect toward the LGBTQ+ community and throwing extra stress at immigrant populations and communities of Color.
I specialize in working with queer, gay, bisexual, & transgender adults & adolescents in California. I am most passionate about providing advocacy for cultural and economic diversity in our community and serving LGBTQ+ people experiencing depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Engaging in therapy is more important than ever especially in response to our current political climate and recent backlash of conservative values showing incredible disrespect toward the LGBTQ+ community and throwing extra stress at immigrant populations and communities of Color.
(415) 504-3833 View (415) 504-3833
Photo of Bianca Christian in San Francisco, CA
Bianca Christian
ACSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110
Additionally, I have gained rewarding, and pivotal counseling experience with the LGBTQ+ community, with specific experience counseling Transgender community members.
The way in which a person cultivates their sense of self, self-esteem, and relationships with others, can be extremely important in their path to wellness. My goal is to meet every client where they are in their journey to mental health and wellness, which means we start where you are and not where I think you should be. I believe that everyone has the capacity to become their best selves and that my work is to provide a safe, helpful, and non-judgmental, environment for those who I am working with.
Additionally, I have gained rewarding, and pivotal counseling experience with the LGBTQ+ community, with specific experience counseling Transgender community members.
The way in which a person cultivates their sense of self, self-esteem, and relationships with others, can be extremely important in their path to wellness. My goal is to meet every client where they are in their journey to mental health and wellness, which means we start where you are and not where I think you should be. I believe that everyone has the capacity to become their best selves and that my work is to provide a safe, helpful, and non-judgmental, environment for those who I am working with.
(916) 269-4958 View (916) 269-4958
Photo of Lark Nierenberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Lark Nierenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a therapeutic focus on gender and sexuality, early trauma, and family and relationship dynamics. My approach is empathic, warm, and thoughtful. My clients often wish to understand their identities more deeply; seek support staying true to themselves in their relationships and community; and pursue healing and meaning-making following trauma. Through our work, you can develop new insights and coping skills to manage overwhelm, anxiety, depression, or life transitions. I'm particularly dedicated to working with queer, transgender, non-binary, and kink communities.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a therapeutic focus on gender and sexuality, early trauma, and family and relationship dynamics. My approach is empathic, warm, and thoughtful. My clients often wish to understand their identities more deeply; seek support staying true to themselves in their relationships and community; and pursue healing and meaning-making following trauma. Through our work, you can develop new insights and coping skills to manage overwhelm, anxiety, depression, or life transitions. I'm particularly dedicated to working with queer, transgender, non-binary, and kink communities.
(415) 851-8370 View (415) 851-8370
Photo of Amber Leshan, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Amber Leshan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
I aim to bring heart, presence, connection, and meaningful guidance to all who choose to work with me. Some of my main areas of focus with clients are navigating relationship issues, building healthy self esteem, anxiety and stress management, and working through trauma. I also have specialized experience working with LGBTQ+ clients, individuals and couples navigating polyamory and open relationships, gender identity (non binary and transgender), sexuality and sacred sexuality, and non traditional spiritual practices. I enjoy working with clients who have a general interest and motivation towards self-reflection and personal growth.
I aim to bring heart, presence, connection, and meaningful guidance to all who choose to work with me. Some of my main areas of focus with clients are navigating relationship issues, building healthy self esteem, anxiety and stress management, and working through trauma. I also have specialized experience working with LGBTQ+ clients, individuals and couples navigating polyamory and open relationships, gender identity (non binary and transgender), sexuality and sacred sexuality, and non traditional spiritual practices. I enjoy working with clients who have a general interest and motivation towards self-reflection and personal growth.
(415) 879-8077 View (415) 879-8077
Photo of Ask Alison Leigh, PHD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Ask Alison Leigh, PHD, MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94111  (Online Only)
The past 22 years I've seen an eclectic group of clientele: men, women & couples of any gender/orientation who want to improve their sexual lifestyle. I've helped men overcome ED through increasing their self confidence and women who want to feel more sexually in charge. I've seen over 25,000 couples throughout every stage of their relationship whether single, dating, married, or exploring and experimenting couples to ones who are curious how to stay together and keep the chemistry strong. My clients include stay at home moms, stressed out executives, artists, entrepreneurs & communities: LGBTQ, BDSM, & Transgender Families.
The past 22 years I've seen an eclectic group of clientele: men, women & couples of any gender/orientation who want to improve their sexual lifestyle. I've helped men overcome ED through increasing their self confidence and women who want to feel more sexually in charge. I've seen over 25,000 couples throughout every stage of their relationship whether single, dating, married, or exploring and experimenting couples to ones who are curious how to stay together and keep the chemistry strong. My clients include stay at home moms, stressed out executives, artists, entrepreneurs & communities: LGBTQ, BDSM, & Transgender Families.
(628) 226-1830 View (628) 226-1830
Photo of Jasper Cornelius Mather, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Jasper Cornelius Mather
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94112
I am passionate about helping individuals in the transgender community navigate the unique challenges that come with gender identity and expression. As a transgender person myself, I understand firsthand the complexity of these issues and the importance of providing a safe and inclusive space for clients to explore their identity. I believe that every person has the capacity to heal and grow, and I am committed to providing a supportive and nonjudgmental environment where clients can explore their identity, work through challenges, and build resilience. I also work with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and relationship issues.
I am passionate about helping individuals in the transgender community navigate the unique challenges that come with gender identity and expression. As a transgender person myself, I understand firsthand the complexity of these issues and the importance of providing a safe and inclusive space for clients to explore their identity. I believe that every person has the capacity to heal and grow, and I am committed to providing a supportive and nonjudgmental environment where clients can explore their identity, work through challenges, and build resilience. I also work with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and relationship issues.
(415) 727-3423 View (415) 727-3423
Photo of Unconventional Minds Coaching in San Francisco, CA
Unconventional Minds Coaching
MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104  (Online Only)
My coaching approach is intersectional & anti-oppressive in practice: proudly affirming of humans who are undocumented migrants, gender-nonconforming, nonbinary, queer and/or LGB, transgender + of trans experience, intersex + of intersex experience, current and former sex workers, non-monogamous, interested in kink/BDSM, asexual &/or aromantic, among others.
Hi! I'm Sam, a Professional Coach who works with neurodivergent adults (ADHD, Autistic, AuDHD, OCD) who have unconventional lives to understand and embrace their unique neurotypes, so they can effectively minimize stress, overcome challenges, and improve their quality of life. Together, we can co-create a supportive, non-judgmental, and effective coaching partnership through which you will learn to fully utilize your strengths, understand and embrace your full humanity, and cultivate practices that are key to defining and achieving your own version of success. Please note: I am a qualified coach, NOT a psychotherapist or counselor.
My coaching approach is intersectional & anti-oppressive in practice: proudly affirming of humans who are undocumented migrants, gender-nonconforming, nonbinary, queer and/or LGB, transgender + of trans experience, intersex + of intersex experience, current and former sex workers, non-monogamous, interested in kink/BDSM, asexual &/or aromantic, among others.
Hi! I'm Sam, a Professional Coach who works with neurodivergent adults (ADHD, Autistic, AuDHD, OCD) who have unconventional lives to understand and embrace their unique neurotypes, so they can effectively minimize stress, overcome challenges, and improve their quality of life. Together, we can co-create a supportive, non-judgmental, and effective coaching partnership through which you will learn to fully utilize your strengths, understand and embrace your full humanity, and cultivate practices that are key to defining and achieving your own version of success. Please note: I am a qualified coach, NOT a psychotherapist or counselor.
(347) 572-7803 View (347) 572-7803
Photo of Hazel Hamann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Hazel Hamann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94110  (Online Only)
Are you queer and/or trans? Do you feel lost and disconnected from your daily life? Exhausted by life's endless responsibilities? Unhappy and dissatisfied with the relationships in your life? I believe in your capacity to lead a meaningful and fulfilling life. I'm here to support your path there. I'm a queer, transgender, & Latinx therapist who has worked with my communities and beyond for 10+ years. I specialize in working with concerns related to relationships, life transitions, intimacy, gender, and sexuality. Let’s work together toward greater balance, growth, and freedom.
Are you queer and/or trans? Do you feel lost and disconnected from your daily life? Exhausted by life's endless responsibilities? Unhappy and dissatisfied with the relationships in your life? I believe in your capacity to lead a meaningful and fulfilling life. I'm here to support your path there. I'm a queer, transgender, & Latinx therapist who has worked with my communities and beyond for 10+ years. I specialize in working with concerns related to relationships, life transitions, intimacy, gender, and sexuality. Let’s work together toward greater balance, growth, and freedom.
(858) 251-8653 View (858) 251-8653
Photo of Skylar Callum Rossy, Pre-Licensed Professional in San Francisco, CA
Skylar Callum Rossy
Pre-Licensed Professional, ACSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in supporting folks regarding Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Relationships, Life Transitions, and navigating queer and transgender identities.
Hello everyone! My name is Skylar Rossy (pronouns: he/him/his) and I’m an Associate Clinical Social Worker with Seeds of Growth Counseling. My goal is to support you with self-empowerment and growth as we navigate difficult emotions and life stressors together.
I specialize in supporting folks regarding Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Relationships, Life Transitions, and navigating queer and transgender identities.
Hello everyone! My name is Skylar Rossy (pronouns: he/him/his) and I’m an Associate Clinical Social Worker with Seeds of Growth Counseling. My goal is to support you with self-empowerment and growth as we navigate difficult emotions and life stressors together.
(916) 378-7230 View (916) 378-7230
Photo of Michael Stample, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Michael Stample
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110
Hello, I'm Michael F. Stample, PhD, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I work extensively with individual adults, couples and families. My primary expertise is in mood and anxiety disorders, OCD, dual diagnosis, LGBTQ+ and transgender healthcare. I mostly work with adults over age 17 or 18, through the later years. While psychiatric diagnoses have their uses, I prefer to see my clients as dealing with "problems of living." I work comfortably with psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and other evidence-based therapies. My early training included internship at the Jung Institute of Los Angeles.
Hello, I'm Michael F. Stample, PhD, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I work extensively with individual adults, couples and families. My primary expertise is in mood and anxiety disorders, OCD, dual diagnosis, LGBTQ+ and transgender healthcare. I mostly work with adults over age 17 or 18, through the later years. While psychiatric diagnoses have their uses, I prefer to see my clients as dealing with "problems of living." I work comfortably with psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and other evidence-based therapies. My early training included internship at the Jung Institute of Los Angeles.
(415) 639-5417 View (415) 639-5417
Photo of Angelica Yi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Angelica Yi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118  (Online Only)
As a queer and bisexual, nonbinary femme, 2nd generation Korean American, I specialize in working with those who identify as LGBTQ+, BIPOC, adult children of immigrants, gender expansive, nonbinary, and transgender. I tend to work with folks who create their own paths in life - ones that may diverge from the norm. Oftentimes, these paths emerge from a place of necessity, without much support, and lacking a roadmap or guide.
As a queer and bisexual, nonbinary femme, 2nd generation Korean American, I specialize in working with those who identify as LGBTQ+, BIPOC, adult children of immigrants, gender expansive, nonbinary, and transgender. I tend to work with folks who create their own paths in life - ones that may diverge from the norm. Oftentimes, these paths emerge from a place of necessity, without much support, and lacking a roadmap or guide.
(415) 449-9963 View (415) 449-9963

See more therapy options for San Francisco

Transgender Therapists

As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?

A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.

What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?

Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.

How can I recognize a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?

An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognize a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.

How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?

Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.